CVE-2026-31883: FreeRDP has a `size_t` underflow in ADPCM decoder leads to heap-buffer-overflow write

Published Mar 13, 2026
·
Updated

FreeRDP is a free implementation of the Remote Desktop Protocol. Prior to 3.24.0, a sizet underflow in the IMA-ADPCM and MS-ADPCM audio decoders leads to heap-buffer-overflow write via the RDPSND audio channel. In libfreerdp/codec/dsp.c, the IMA-ADPCM and MS-ADPCM decoders subtract block header sizes from a sizet variable without checking for underflow. When nBlockAlign (received from the server) is set such that size % blocksize == 0 triggers the header parsing at a point where size is smaller than the header (4 or 8 bytes), the subtraction wraps size to ~SIZEMAX. The while (size > 0) loop then continues for an astronomical number of iterations. This vulnerability is fixed in 3.24.0.

Affected Software

2 affected components
FreeRDP freerdp<3.24.0
FreeRDP freerdp<3.24.0

Event History

Mar 13, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·05:35 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·05:35 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via Red Hat·06:04 PM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Data Sourced
via NVD·07:54 PM
RemedyDescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-31883?

CVE-2026-31883 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to the potential exploitation via heap-buffer overflow.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-31883?

To fix CVE-2026-31883, update FreeRDP to version 3.24.0 or later.

3

What types of systems are affected by CVE-2026-31883?

CVE-2026-31883 affects FreeRDP versions prior to 3.24.0 that utilize the RDPSND audio channel.

4

What impact does CVE-2026-31883 have on FreeRDP?

CVE-2026-31883 can lead to a heap-buffer-overflow write, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution.

5

When was CVE-2026-31883 disclosed?

CVE-2026-31883 was disclosed prior to the release of FreeRDP version 3.24.0.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203